School Blog

I am sure that 2016 will prove to be a memorable year

Posted: 10th November 2016
| Category:
Headmaster's Blog

I am sure that 2016 will prove to be a memorable year for all as world politics continues to produce big news and at Skippers the topics of ‘Brexit’ and the American Presidential election continue to provide plenty of discussion points. It is fantastic to see the children so engaged and knowledgeable about current affairs and as an erstwhile teacher - but lifelong fan - of history I always enjoy reflecting upon the lessons from the past. I thoroughly enjoyed Year 5’s assembly this week on the Roman invasion of Celtic Britain in 43AD; the children proving once again what excellent public speaking skills they are able to develop at Skippers as every child spoke with confidence, clarity and coherence. Garbed in their costumes and face paints the children hosted a Q and A session between Celts and Romans about how the conquering forces brought progress, new ideas and development to Celtic Britain. At what cost to our way of life, though, the Celts asked? It really does seem that nothing is new.

The Year 8’s also contributed to our assembly programme this week by launching a two week emphasis on ‘kindness’ at school. With World Kindness Day approaching on 13th November and national anti-bullying week thereafter, the children are reflecting upon the impact of acts of kindness, on both themselves and others. We heard from the organiser of the new MAYFACS initiative (Mayfield and Five Ashes Community Service) which aspires to tackle isolation amongst the elderly in our local community; those in Years 3 to 6 have been asked to design a logo for MAYFACS along with the other children in the local schools and I look forward to seeing their designs. The school will be supporting MAYFACS with further events in the year as part of the community service element of the Challenge Award for Years 6 to 8.

Thank you to all in the community who have already provided gift boxes for ‘Operation Christmas’, which will make such a difference to many children in need this year.